Residents in the Frome area have been voicing their opinions on the news that the Saxonvale site has been bought by Mendip District Council.

The news broke on August 6 that the district council had purchased the site as part of regeneration plans for Frome town centre.

Many members of the public and residents of Frome have waited years for the site to see any action, with one resident saying that 'nothing has happened for 30 years'.

Some of the reaction has been positive, seeing it as a step forward for the Somerset town.

The Saxonvale site has been derelict for some time (Image: Shannon Darcy Photography)

Dave Merrit said: "It would make a good place for a much needed middle school "

Mendip District Councillor Adam Boyden voiced his opinion on Tiwtter.

Some residents had their own ideas on what should be built there.

Shaun Lewis said: "New shopping precinct and a few more places to eat and a couple of bars required there and a few contemporary flats maybe on top."

Joel Furnell said: "Please just a few domestic buildings. retail commercial and green spaces. With a little creativity, vision and sympathetic eye the potential is amazing in the hands of the right custodian.

However, some were pessimistic the the site would benefit locals.

Alana Andrews said: "Whilst this is some obvious movement I fear they will simple use the space to dump more houses that the town doesn't need. They will likely opt for the biggest return."

Adam Symes was critical of the council's previous work with the site, and said: "Given that the council has rejected every proposal so far ranging from retail to mixed use, it'll be just loads more expensive houses that don't threaten any of the council members existing interests and bring in the most amount of tax for them to spend.

Shelly Stoodley wants more for the people of Frome to do, and said: "Please don't use it for housing. Shops and entertainment please."